The Future in Flight Podcast

Coast to Coast in 31 Hours to Raise $1M: w/Charlie Duffie & Chris Holder

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a lifelong passion for aviation, speed, and service collides with a legendary cross-country challenge? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Chris Holder of Concord Battery and Charlie Duffie of CJ Aviation to unpack an ambitious and heartfelt mission: a 31-hour Cannonball Run across the United States to raise $1 million for the Tango 31 Aero Club.
Chris and Charlie dive into the history of the Cannonball Run, the engineering and performance behind Charlie’s hand-built Factory Five Type 65 Coupe, and the logistics of attempting a coast-to-coast drive at speed—all while honoring the legacy of Kevin Lacey, founder of Tango 31. The conversation highlights how Tango 31 has transformed the lives of underserved youth by teaching them to build, maintain, and fly aircraft, producing pilots, A&P mechanics, and aviation leaders now working across the industry.
Beyond the car and the run, this episode is about giving back, sustaining aviation education, and creating a future pipeline of skilled professionals. With industry-wide support, major sponsors, and a growing wave of momentum, this Cannonball Run is more than an endurance challenge—it’s a mission to ensure Kevin Lacey’s vision lives on and expands nationwide.
Thank you to everyone supporting this effort and helping keep aviation dreams alive for the next generation.
✨ Key Points
The Cannonball Run for Tango 31 Aero Clube
A 31-hour coast-to-coast Cannonball Run honoring Tango 31
Southern Route: Jacksonville Beach, FL to San Diego, CA
Goal: Raise $1 million to ensure long-term sustainability for Tango 31 Aero Club
The Mission Behind Tango 31
Founded by Kevin Lacey, aviation icon and mentor
Youth rebuild donated aircraft from the ground up, then learn to fly them
Alumni now include corporate pilots, A&P mechanics, and industry professionals
Funds will support insurance, travel, aircraft operations, and program growth
The Car & The Build
Hand-built Type 65 Factory Five Type 65 Coupe
480 horsepower, ~2,740 lbs, built for speed and endurance
Inspired by Carroll Shelby’s aviation and racing legacy
Designed for performance, safety, and long-distance comfort
Industry & Community Support
Sponsors include Concord Battery, Michelin, Lightspeed Aviation Headsets, and more
Strong backing from aviation manufacturers and distributors
Early commitments already exceeding $70,000
What’s Next
Teaser videos and updates rolling out on Concord Battery’s social platforms
Planned stop at Tango 31 in McKinney, Texas, with youth aircraft escorting part of the run
Car appearance (and possible drag race!) at Sun ’n Fun
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction & the 31-hour Cannonball concept0:45 – 4:39 | History of the Cannonball Run & route selection4:40 – 11:41 | Tango 31 Aero Club, Kevin Lacey’s legacy, and youth impact11:42 – 16:29 | Record times, strategy, and modern-day challenges16:30 – 22:30 | The Factory Five Type 65 Coupe: design, power, and performance22:31 – 27:30 | Logistics, fuel strategy, comfort, and endurance27:31 – 31:24 | Sponsors, fundraising, and how to get involved31:25 – End | Final reflections, legacy, and the future of Tango 31
🔗 Links
Tango 31 Aero Club (Donations via Zeffy): https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/31-hours-for-tango-thirty-one
Concord Battery: https://www.concordebattery.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
BULBag: https://bulbag.com/

Aviation in Motion: Purpose, Props, and Safety

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a hand-built Shelby Daytona Coupe, a cross-country Cannonball Run, and a youth aviation nonprofit collide? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker takes listeners on an unforgettable journey where speed meets purpose and aviation becomes a force for generational change.
The story begins with Chris Holder (Concorde Battery Corporation) and Charlie Duffie (CJ Aviation)—two lifelong aviation enthusiasts undertaking a bold mission: driving a 408-horsepower Shelby Daytona Coupe coast-to-coast in just 31 hours to raise funds for Tango 31 Aero Club, a youth aviation program that has transformed dozens of young lives. Their run honors the legacy of Kevin Lacey, Tango 31’s founder, whose passion for mentoring underserved youth through aircraft restoration and flight training continues to inspire the aviation community after his passing.
From there, Shawn shifts gears—literally and figuratively—into aviation innovation, spotlighting Hartzell Propellers and their new Falcon Series, which brings century-old engineering expertise into the affordable aviation market by cutting propeller weight in half without sacrificing reliability.
The episode closes with a fascinating deep dive into one of aviation’s most important safety tools: the phonetic alphabet. Shawn unpacks its wartime origins, international testing, and why words like Alpha, Bravo, and Niner are carefully engineered to save lives in noisy cockpits and across language barriers.
This episode is about legacy, persistence, and community—and how aviation thrives when people refuse to let good ideas, or good people, be forgotten.
✨ Key Points
🏁 31 Hours for Tango 31
Chris Holder and Charlie Duffie attempt a Southern Cannonball Run from Jacksonville Beach, FL to San Diego, CA.
Goal: 31 hours, symbolizing Tango 31 Aero Club.
Mission: Raise $1M to make Tango 31 self-sustaining after the loss of founder Kevin Lacey.
Tango 31 students rebuild donated aircraft and learn to fly them—many go on to aviation careers.
Over $70,000 in commitments pledged immediately after the mission was announced.
Ultimate vision: Expand Tango 31 into a nationwide model for youth aviation education.
🛩️ Giving Back Through Aviation
Kevin Lacey’s legacy lives on through the students he mentored.
Over 40 youth have gone through Tango 31 since 2017.
Alumni now work as pilots, A&P mechanics, and for companies like Cirrus Aircraft.
“No pressure, no diamonds” becomes the guiding philosophy of the mission.
⚙️ Hartzell Propellers & Affordable Aviation
Hartzell Propellers has been innovating since 1917.
The Falcon Series is designed for engines like the Rotax 916.
Weight reduced from ~40 lbs to ~20 lbs—major performance gains.
Mission-specific prop design supports LSA, kit aircraft, and modern sport flying.
OEM partnerships (CubCrafters, Van’s) can reduce costs for builders and pilots.
📡 The Aviation Phonetic Alphabet
Developed through WWII and finalized internationally by ICAO and NATO.
Designed to eliminate confusion across languages, accents, and poor radio quality.
Examples:
Alpha (ALFA) for global pronunciation
Tree, Fife, Niner for clarity
Used worldwide by pilots, ATC, emergency services, and beyond.
One of aviation’s most successful safety innovations.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 1:30 | Introduction: Speed, purpose, and aviation community1:31 – 9:40 | 31 Hours for Tango 31: The Cannonball Run mission9:41 – 11:00 | Honoring Kevin Lacey & the legacy of Tango 3111:01 – 16:20 | Hartzell Propellers: Century-old innovation meets modern flying16:21 – 22:30 | Propeller evolution, weight savings, and mission-based design22:31 – 33:30 | The aviation phonetic alphabet: History, safety, and global impact33:31 – End | Final reflections, community call-to-action, and closing thoughts
🔗 Links & Resources
Tango 31 Aero Club:https://www.t31aeroclube.com/
Concorde Battery Corporation:https://www.concordebattery.com/
CJ Aviation:https://www.mcfarlaneaviation.com/cj-aviation/
Hartzell Propellers:https://www.hartzellprop.com/
AviNation USA / Aviation Magazine:https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media:https://creativerelaymedia.com/
 

Servant Leadership and Breaking Barriers in Aviation with Michelle Leon

🎧 Episode Summary
In this high-energy interview, Michelle Leon, Operations Manager at Levil Aviation, discusses the common thread that links her diverse career background: people. From her early days in hospitality and dentistry to leading operations in aviation and manufacturing, Michelle explains how the philosophy of servant leadership has guided her success.
We explore how Levil Aviation is disrupting the avionics market with affordable, safety-enhancing equipment and the specific strategies Michelle uses to build a paperless, highly efficient workplace. The conversation also tackles the critical need for workforce development and how early exposure to trades can change the trajectory of students' lives.
➡️ Be sure to check out our newest show sponsor: BULBag USA!
⭐ Key Points
Servant Leadership: Being in the trenches with your team and focusing on their growth leads to a more resilient culture.
The Appreciation Gap: Utilizing the 'Five Languages of Appreciation' to recognize employees in the way they actually want to be seen.
Women in STEM: Overcoming industry biases by maintaining credibility and leading with knowledge.
Early Exposure: The importance of introducing middle schoolers to CNC machining and robotics before they choose a career path.
NORSEE Approval: A breakdown of how the FAA allows safety-enhancing equipment to reach pilots faster.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction and Michelle's diverse career journey00:54 - Servant leadership lessons from the dentistry world03:54 - Why workforce development energizes the team04:54 - Moving toward paperless and digital-first operations06:11 - Boosting morale through the Five Languages of Appreciation08:04 - Earning respect as a woman in aviation and manufacturing13:06 - Why middle school is the 'sweet spot' for trade exposure19:32 - Introducing Levil Connect: The future of data collection22:12 - Deep dive into the FAA's NORSEE approval process28:29 - Advice for building a professional network
🔗 Links & Resources
Levil Aviation Official Website
Creative Relay Media
AviNation
BULBag USA

Aviation at the Crossroads: What 2026 Means for Pilots, Planes, and the Path Forward

🎧 Episode Summary
What does the future of aviation really look like as we head toward 2026—and how can today’s pilots, students, and aviation dreamers prepare for it? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker takes listeners on a forward-looking journey through the biggest shifts shaping aviation’s near future. From airline industry pressures and evolving airport experiences, to revolutionary changes in flight training and the FAA’s new MOSAIC rule, this episode is all about opportunity at a moment of pivot for aviation.
Shawn then spotlights hands-on innovation with a deep dive into the Silverlight Aviation Recon, a versatile, trailerable experimental aircraft designed to solve real-world ownership challenges like hangar shortages and rising costs—without sacrificing performance or fun. The episode wraps with expert insight from Lou Mancuso, “The Landing Doctor,” whose unconventional training philosophy has helped produce safer pilots and buttery-smooth landings through a return to fundamentals.
This episode is about innovation, accessibility, and mastery—and why the next generation of aviators has more paths into the sky than ever before.
✨ Key Points
Aviation Outlook: 2026 and Beyond
Airlines face mounting pressure from costs, staffing, safety, and fuel—creating a crossroads moment.
Airports are embracing biometrics and tech, but empathy and human connection are becoming key differentiators.
Travelers want seamless, tech-enabled experiences without losing the human touch.
Flight Training & Careers
Global pilot demand remains strong due to retirements and fleet growth.
Flight schools are integrating VR, AR, AI-powered tracking, and digital logbooks.
Modular and accelerated training paths could get students job-ready in as little as 12 months.
FAA MOSAIC Rule Explained
Removes weight limits for new Light Sport Aircraft designs.
Expands LSA to allow up to four seats.
Enables more advanced aircraft systems with proper endorsements.
Opens new, more affordable pathways into flight training and ownership.
Silverlight Aviation Recon
Kit-built experimental aircraft with folding wings—deployable in 10–15 minutes by one person.
Trailerable design solves hangar waitlists and storage costs.
Configurable with nosewheel or tailwheel landing gear.
Engine options from 100 hp to 160 hp turbocharged.
Excellent visibility, backcountry capability, and real-world versatility.
The Landing Doctor Method
Taught by Lou Mancuso of Sebring Flight Academy.
Focuses on slow flight down the runway to master sight picture.
Emphasizes fundamentals over instruments—sometimes covering the panel entirely.
Resulted in zero accidents, incidents, or insurance claims in eight years.
Training resources available free online for pilots and instructors.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 1:00 | Introduction & aviation’s crossroads heading into 20261:01 – 2:50 | Airports, biometrics, and the importance of empathy2:51 – 5:16 | Flight training evolution & FAA MOSAIC rule breakdown5:17 – 7:14 | Why 2026 is a turning point for young aviators7:15 – 12:56 | Silverlight Aviation Recon: design, performance & ownership innovation12:57 – 14:58 | Why the Recon makes aircraft ownership more accessible14:59 – 17:57 | The Landing Doctor: mastering landings through fundamentals17:58 – End | Final reflections on skill, simplicity, and the joy of flying
🔗 Links
Silverlight Aviation Recon: https://silverlightaviation.com/
The Landing Doctor: https://thelandingdoctor.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
 

The Future in Flight Before Christmas & Yearly Recap

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a year of aviation inspiration, grit, generosity, and discovery all comes together on Christmas week? In this festive episode, host Shawn Staerker brings you a heartwarming holiday special straight from “a hangar somewhere near the flightline.”
Shawn unwraps some of the most powerful, uplifting, and unforgettable moments from the 2025 season—from sparking first-time aviation magic in kids, to stories of perseverance, to veterans being honored from the sky, to life-changing career pathways opening across the country.
You’ll revisit:
✨ The spark of aviation awe through paper airplanes…✨ The butterflies of a flight-test engineer who discovered the beauty behind complex systems…✨ The power of networking and mentorship for young aviators…✨ The resilience of those who faced rejection, delays, or setbacks—yet kept climbing…✨ The generosity of pilots who used their own aircraft to lift up others…✨ The emotional weight of military flying and the unseen realities of those who serve.
Plus—Shawn shares an incredible new Christmas aviation story:“’Twas the Flight Before the Night Before Christmas.”
This episode is about gratitude, growth, and the powerful ways aviation brings people together—especially during the holidays.
Special thanks to Flyte Sunglasses—light on weight, not on quality! And be sure to join the 25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway for your chance to win amazing gear this holiday season.
✨ Key Points
Inspiring Moments From Our 2025 Guests
Sparking the Magic – with Mike Salmon (ADS)
Demonstrated paper airplane aerodynamics to children ages 5–13.
Witnessed their “first aviation spark” as their eyes lit up with discovery.
Reminded us that aviation inspiration starts young.
Flight Test Excitement – with Adriana Barragan (FlyORKA)
Described the moment complex engineering “clicked” for her.
Talked about turning something extraordinary and intimidating into something she could understand—and love.
Networking as a Superpower – with Claire Mahr (Fly Girl Aircraft Detailing)
Encouraged young aviators to walk into FBOs, join every aviation group they can, and meet everyone possible.
Reinforced that opportunity grows through community.
Career Pathways – with Mary Lamie (St. Louis Freightway / BSD)
Explained aviation career roadmaps showing job options, earning potential, and next-step guidance.
Highlighted the importance of clear, accessible paths to high-paying aviation careers.
Perseverance – with Brian Kincaid (6 Zero Alpha)
Once told his color blindness meant he could never fly fighters—so he quit aviation at 17.
Returned years later and earned his pilot certificate at 31.
Message: Never let someone else define your limits.
Persistence & Funding – with Jamail Larkins (AviationStart)
Faced 93 rejections before receiving his first aviation sponsorship.
Now helps thousands through free scholarship resources.
Giving Back – with Luke Pylypciw (SkyScholar)
Flew a Mooney on an East Coast tour to visit veteran centers.
Raised $15,000 for Hope for the Warriors.
A true example of aviation used for service and meaning.
Military Strength & Sacrifice (Jeremy Meyers and Anthony Dyer)
Pilots shared emotional stories from combat deployments, including difficult missions, near-empty fuel returns, and the unseen moments that shape the lives of those who serve.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Welcome from the hangar + Christmas kickoff0:45 – 1:35 | Sparking aviation magic with paper airplanes1:36 – 1:55 | Flight test butterflies and discovering understanding1:56 – 2:34 | Networking advice from Claire Maher2:35 – 3:00 | Aviation career roadmaps for students3:01 – 3:30 | Perseverance: Never giving up on flying3:31 – 3:55 | Jamail Larkins and 93 rejections3:56 – 4:09 | Break: 25 Days of Flightsmas4:10 – 5:05 | Luke Pylypciw on “Luke for the Troops”5:06 – 6:17 | Stories from military pilots and powerful missions6:18 – End | Christmas story + Year-in-review reflections + closing
🔗 Links & Resources
AviNation USA – https://www.avinationusa.com/Creative Relay Media – https://creativerelaymedia.com/Flightsmas Giveaway – https://futureinflight.com/flightsmas
 

From First Solo to Full Throttle: A Conversation with Luke Pylypciw

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a teenager refuses to let age—or anything else—limit what’s possible in aviation? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker sits down with rising aviator Luke Pylypciw, whose story spans from a spark ignited on childhood vacations to impactful charitable flights, collegiate aviation training, and inspiring the next generation online.
Luke shares how he balanced high school academics with flight training, convinced a hesitant family to support his flying goals, and cultivated discipline that continues to guide him today. You’ll also hear how the Goodrich Flying Club shaped his early flying years, why he chose Florida Tech, and how he avoids burnout in an intense collegiate aviation environment.
We also dive deep into “Loop for the Troops”—Luke’s ambitious multi-state charitable mission flown solo at just 17–18 years old, raising $15,000 for post-9/11 combat veterans. And finally, Luke opens up about using social media to inspire young aviators to pursue meaningful work while following their passion for flying.
This episode is a celebration of purpose, perseverance, and the power of aviation to change lives—one young pilot at a time.
Starting flight training and want some awesome gear? Check out our “25 Days of Flightsmas” giveaway! We’re giving away a pair of FLYTE sunglasses and a sweet BULBag utility bag!
Enter here to win: https://futureinflight.com/flightsmas/
✨ Key Points
Luke’s Journey Into Aviation
Inspired by childhood travel and exposure to a family friend who was a corporate pilot.
Took a discovery flight at 15 and began training two months later.
Balanced accelerated high-school academics with flight lessons.
Navigated early hesitancy from his family by proving commitment and maintaining strong grades.
Became the youngest member of the Goodrich Flying Club, flying solo before he could drive.
Found an encouraging aviation community that helped fuel his fast growth.
Florida Tech & Avoiding Burnout
Chose Florida Tech for flight-training opportunities, diversity, and its location on the Space Coast.
Uses intentional downtime—sunshine, the beach, exercise, and screen-free time—to stay grounded and safe.
Focuses on compartmentalization: flying when flying, studying when studying, relaxing when relaxing.
Loop for the Troops
At 17–18 years old, planned and executed a multi-state flight honoring veterans.
Raised $15,000 for Hope for the Warriors, visiting veterans’ homes along the East Coast.
Flew over 2,000 miles in a Mooney, supported by sponsors and local aviation communities.
Used YouTube and Instagram to inspire youth by showing how passion and purpose can align.
Social Media & Inspiring the Next Generation
Began posting flights for self-review and skill improvement.
Shifted to sharing meaningful aviation projects to motivate young followers.
Received feedback from youth who launched their own charitable initiatives because of his example.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Luke Pylypciw's Journey05:02 Navigating Early Challenges in Aviation10:09 Community Impact through Aviation15:04 Innovative Philanthropy: Wings of Opportunity19:53 Sky Scholar: Guiding Future Aviators24:56 The Role of Technology in Aviation29:47 Pursuing Dual Degrees and Career Diversity34:34 Personal Insights and Future Aspirations
🔗 Links
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
SKYSCHOLAR: https://www.myskyscholar.com/
25 Days of Flightsmas: https://futureinflight.com/flightsmas/

Lifesaving Headsets┃MAJOR News from Van's┃Hi-Tech Ground School

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when lifesaving tech, real-world experience, and two powerhouse creators collide? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker dives into the life-changing importance of a truly great aviation headset—through the firsthand stories of Cooper the Pilot and YouTube creator Carl Hancock (Fly With The Guys).
From Cooper’s unforgettable first flight as a young adoptee from Korea to her mission-driven Hangar 22 scholarship program… to Carl’s terrifying real-world carbon monoxide emergencies and how the Lightspeed Delta Zulu literally saved his life—this episode is an inside look at the gear that keeps pilots safe, alert, and connected.
Shawn explores how today’s headsets do far more than quiet the cockpit: they prevent CO poisoning, adapt to your hearing profile, support training, and help build aviation’s next generation. Then, the episode shifts gears with exclusive updates on two major announcements from Van’s Aircraft, including upgrades to the RV-12iS Trainer and the rugged new RV-15 made for backcountry flying.
This episode is about safety, innovation, and the future of flight—and the people working every day to make aviation better for everyone.
✨ Special thanks to our episode partner — Lightspeed AviationMakers of the Delta Zulu—built for your mission with life-saving CO detection, personalized hearing profiles, and the best ANR Lightspeed has ever engineered.
Reminder about the “25 Days of Flightsmas” giveaway happening right now! Enter for a chance to win a pair of Flyte Sunglasses or a BULBag Utility Bag! Visit the Future in Flight website for more information.
The 25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway
⭐ Key Points
Cooper the Pilot — Lessons & Takeaways
Her aviation journey began during her first flight to the U.S. at age 5—“the flying house.”
Runs the Hangar 22 scholarship program empowering young aviators.
Chooses gear intentionally and tested the Lightspeed Delta Zulu before recommending it to students.
The Delta Zulu’s CO detector alerted her when her aircraft’s built-in sensor failed.
Loves the dual-volume controls, audio clarity, ATC recording, and modular plugs for switching between helicopters and fixed-wing.
Carl Hancock — Survival, Training & Tech
Survived a dangerous carbon monoxide poisoning incident in a new-to-him aircraft.
A second CO leak occurred months later—this time, the Delta Zulu caught it instantly.
Uses hearing-profile tuning in the Lightspeed app to customize audio.
Many students using his aircraft no longer need hearing aids when flying with the headset.
Launching Empower Flight, a nonprofit flight school, and opening a new channel, Guys Aviation.
Why the Delta Zulu Matters
Built-in, instant CO monitoring saves lives—unlike card-style detectors that take ~45 minutes to change.
Customizable hearing profile via app.
Independent left/right volume controls.
High-end ANR reduces fatigue for students and instructors.
Multi-platform recording for education and content creation.
Holiday promo: $100 off, and $200 off for CFIs/pro pilots.
Vans Aircraft 2026 Announcements
RV-12iS Trainer
Structural strengthening based on training-fleet feedback.
Improved systems and comfort upgrades (including new seat cushions for CFIs).
Designed to meet Mosaic requirements—IFR capability, heated pitot, more electrical capacity.
RV-15 Backcountry
A rugged, STOL-friendly design built for backcountry adventure.
Vans continues pushing innovation with 12,000+ aircraft flying worldwide.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
00:00 The Importance of Aviation Headsets08:58 Innovations in Aircraft Design16:44 Making Aviation Training Affordable
🔗 Links
Lightspeed Aviation Delta Zulu: https://www.lightspeedaviation.com/product/lightspeed-delta-zulu-anr-headset/
Cooper the Pilot / Hangar 22: https://instagram.com/hangart22.official
Fly With The Guys: https://flywiththeguys.com/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
 

Roots, Wings, and Sacrifice: A Conversation with USAF SSgt (Ret.) Anthony Dyer

🎧 Episode Summary
What does it take to fly head-first into danger so that others may live?In this powerful episode, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Anthony Dyer—retired Special Missions Aviator, Jolly Green rescue team member, AC-130 gunship aerial gunner, and author of the upcoming book Moonchild.
Anthony shares the reality behind the job once known as “aerial gunner,” a role that evolved into the modern, multi-discipline Special Missions Aviator—part gunner, part flight engineer, part loadmaster, and all warrior. From more than 2,700 flight hours, 200+ combat missions, and being part of the 2018 Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year, Anthony brings listeners directly into the cockpit—and the chaos—of the combat search-and-rescue world.
But this episode goes deeper than missions. Anthony opens up about mental health, trauma, addiction, and the long road to healing after two decades of war. His book Moonchild was born from that recovery, written to help others who may be struggling in silence.
This conversation is about courage, humility, purpose, and the power of saying, “It’s okay not to be okay.”
A must-listen for anyone interested in military aviation, resilience, and the human side of service.
✨ The 25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway is Here!
Win BIG this December in The 25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway! Grand prizes include Flyte Sunglasses & a BULBag utility bag. Plus, we're giving away daily prizes! Check out the details here:
25 Days of Flightsmas Giveaway
🔑 Key Points
Anthony Dyer’s Aviation Journey
Began as an aerial gunner on the AC-130A Spectre gunship.
Transitioned into the expanded role of Special Missions Aviator—combining aerial gunner, flight engineer, and loadmaster duties.
Logged 2,700+ flight hours and 200+ combat missions across multiple platforms.
Flew with elite communities including the 16th Special Operations Squadron and the Jolly Green HH-60 rescue units.
Took part in a high-risk June 8, 2018 casualty evacuation in East Africa—saving five and losing one—an event that shaped him profoundly.
Became part of the 2018 Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year, one of the highest honors in combat rescue.
Lessons From the Jolly Green & Special Ops Community
“That others may live” isn’t a slogan—it’s a way of life.
Purpose, duty, and preparation are vital on missions where someone’s worst day becomes your call to action.
Mental toughness is built long before deployment through physical, mental, and spiritual readiness.
Humility and quiet professionalism define the rescue and gunship communities.
Inside Moonchild: Trauma, Honesty & Healing
Writing began as part of prolonged exposure therapy during recovery from trauma and alcohol dependency.
The process required reliving painful events—including combat losses and personal struggles.
The book emphasizes: “It’s okay not to be okay.”
Aims to help service members, veterans, and families seek help without shame.
Themes of “roots and wings”—Appalachian heritage versus the drive to serve something greater.
Advice for Future Service Members
Military aviation is demanding—but purpose, teamwork, and legacy make the sacrifice meaningful.
Fear is natural; courage is choosing to serve anyway.
Service is about something bigger than oneself—being the ride home or the way home for someone else.
Pride isn’t found in medals—it’s in being trusted with someone’s life.
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: What a Special Missions Aviator really does0:45 – 2:50 | Three jobs in one: Gunner, Flight Engineer, Loadmaster2:51 – 4:13 | Combat search-and-rescue: tracer fire, split-second decisions, and the 2018 mission4:14 – 6:36 | Duty, preparation, and the mindset needed for high-stakes missions6:37 – 7:45 | Pride, purpose, and a career built on elite platforms7:46 – 9:27 | From trauma to authorship: How Moonchild was born9:28 – 10:52 | “Roots and wings”—the message behind the book10:53 – 11:41 | Addiction, honesty, and confronting the darkest moments11:42 – end | What Anthony hopes every young service member and veteran hears
🔗 Links
Flyte Sunglasseshttps://www.flyte.aero/
BULBag
https://bulbag.com/
AviNation USAhttps://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Mediahttps://creativerelaymedia.com/
Get Anthony’s Book Here:Moon Child: The Roots and Wings of a USAF Combat Special Missions Aviator by Anthony Dyer, Robbie Grayson, Paperback | Barnes & Noble®

Wired Different: How Trades, Tech, and Photography Are Changing Aviation

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when leadership meets grit, curiosity, and a genuine love for people? In this episode of The Future in Flight Podcast, host Shawn Staerker spotlights Michelle Leon, Operations Manager at Levil Aviation, and one of aviation and manufacturing’s most powerful emerging voices. Michelle’s journey spans hospitality, dental leadership, Lockheed Martin, and now cutting-edge avionics—and along the way, she’s mastered the art of servant leadership.
From breaking barriers as a woman in male-dominated industries to inspiring young students through hands-on trades education, Michelle shares how saying “I don’t know” can be a strength, why manufacturing is everywhere in our lives, and how early exposure can change the trajectory of future careers.
The episode also shifts gears into a high-energy segment on aviation photography, where Shawn and top creators break down how anyone—from smartphone shooters to DSLR pros—can capture jaw-dropping aircraft photos. From shutter speed to vapor trails, you’ll walk away ready to level up your aviation content.
This episode is about leadership, representation, practical innovation, and capturing the magic of aviation—whether through people or through the lens.
✨ Key Points
Michelle Leon’s Journey
Transitioned from hospitality and dental leadership to aviation and advanced manufacturing
Became Operations Manager at Levil Aviation with no prior CNC or avionics experience
Embraced servant leadership learned through Heartland Dental
Advocates for learning by asking questions and admitting what you don’t know
Helped navigate NORSEE (Non-Required Safety Enhancing Equipment) approvals
Instrumental in launching Level’s BOM portable flight instrument
Leadership & Representation
How being in the “trenches” builds trust and stronger teams
The evolving role of women in aviation and manufacturing
Why credibility matters—and how to protect it
The importance of mentorship and professional associations for women
Trades & Workforce Development
Why career exposure should start in middle school
How many students are never introduced to skilled trade careers
“Itchy butt syndrome” — when hands-on learners are forced into traditional classrooms
Five-year-olds running CNC machines and working with robots
Trades can offer $40/hour careers directly out of high school
Aviation Photography Tips
Use slow-motion video on your phone and grab screenshots
Shoot from low or side angles for dramatic effect
Story-driven aviation photography
Use fast shutter speeds for jets (1/1000+)
Slower shutter speeds for props (around 1/250) for motion blur
Shoot in RAW format for better editing flexibility
High humidity = better chance of vapor trails
SKYSCHOLAR
Personalized aviation career roadmaps
Smart training without unnecessary debt
Real-world, industry-driven career guidance
Flexible pathways across aviation careers
Confidence through clarity and planning
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: Industry game changers0:45 – 3:30 | Michelle’s background & servant leadership3:31 – 5:32 | Women in aviation and earning credibility5:33 – 7:23 | Early exposure to trades & education reform7:24 – 9:12 | Manufacturing impact + NORSI explained9:13 – 10:09 | Michelle’s message and life philosophy10:10 – 10:43 | Creative Relay Media sponsor message10:44 – 12:20 | Intro to aviation photography12:21 – 14:20 | Smartphone & camera photography tips14:21 – 16:30 | Story-driven aviation photography16:31 – End | Pro techniques, shutter speeds & vapor trails
🔗 Links
Level Aviation: https://levelaviation.comAviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/

Opening the Skies: Aviation's Path to Empowering the Autism Community

🎧 Episode Summary
What happens when a special needs father working in business aviation decides the status quo isn't good enough? In this episode, host Shawn Staerker sits down with Antonio Ferrara, founder of Aviators for Autism, to explore how one man's personal journey is transforming the intersection of aviation and the autism community.
Antonio shares his unique path from aviation detailing to ground operations to corporate roles at Talon Air—and how becoming a father to Nicholas, his nonverbal son with apraxia, sparked a mission to break down barriers. From creating immersive airport experiences with boarding passes and passport stamps, to envisioning the aviation industry's first flight desk powered by neurodiverse talent, Antonio is rewriting the playbook on inclusion.
But this conversation goes beyond advocacy. It's about practical innovation: sensory-friendly airport design, vocational training programs using aircraft fuselages, and creating employment pathways in an industry facing a 1.5 million worker shortage by 2034. Antonio doesn't just talk about change—he's building it, one hangar tour and one hire at a time.
This episode is for anyone who believes aviation should be accessible to all, and that diversity isn't just a buzzword—it's a competitive advantage.
Thank you to our show supporters—Flyte sunglasses! "Light on weight not on quality." Perfect for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and anyone who loves the skies!
✨ Key Points
Antonio's Aviation Journey
Born into aviation—father is a 38-year American Airlines captain and A&P/IA mechanic
Grew up as an "aviation brat" flying unaccompanied between Texas and New York
Took the long road: worked blue-collar jobs, got his GED at 17, then found aviation through detailing
Started as a line guy at Talon Air and worked up to training manager and corporate office roles over nearly 11 years
Now runs his own charter brokerage while leading Aviators for Autism
The Mission of Aviators for Autism
Two-pronged approach: Empower families to travel AND create employment opportunities
87% of families with individuals on the spectrum don't plan vacations—millions of families missing out
Over 80% of individuals on the spectrum with college/high school degrees are unemployed or underemployed
Aviation faces a 1.5 million worker shortage by 2034—perfect opportunity for inclusion
Immersive Airport Experiences
Partnered with Talon Air and Help Alliance (Lufthansa's nonprofit)
Families receive boarding passes, go through mock security, build passports with stamps
Tours conducted in 30-40,000 sq ft hangars using business jets (G5 with 17-seat configuration)
Videos play during tours showing takeoff/landing for immersive experience
Healthy snacks, quiet spaces, patient staff—designed for sensory needs
Goal: Expand events nationwide (Nashville, Opa-locka, Dallas, and beyond)
Employment Innovation
Analytical and data roles: Ideal for hyper-focus abilities
Aircraft detailing program: Partnering with Fly Alliance to source aircraft fuselages for vocational training at schools
Industry's first neurodiverse-powered flight desk: Charter trip sourcing roles that can be done remotely or in-office
Engineering paths: Starting with youth exposure to create passion early
Benefits of Hiring Neurodiverse Talent
Exceptional ability to follow procedures and workflows
Hyper-focus on tasks
Forces companies to build more robust SOPs—benefits entire workforce
Varying perspectives lead to better problem-solving
Access to untapped talent pool
Design & Innovation Needs
Lighting: LED flicker is overstimulating—need better diffusers
Fabrics: More sensory-friendly textiles in aircraft interiors
Nut-free flights: Many individuals on spectrum have severe nut allergies
Airport infrastructure: Only 20 U.S. airports have sensory rooms—need more
Airport escort services: Common in Europe, should be standard in U.S. (like wheelchair assistance)
EVTOL opportunities: Simpler access points, potential for drone operation roles
Supporting Special Needs Fathers
Created WhatsApp group for special needs dads (75+ members, goal of 100 by year-end)
Over 80% of families with kids on spectrum end in divorce
Space for dads to share wins, losses, struggles without judgment
Email antonio@aviatorsforautism.org to join (invite-only to protect integrity)
Travel Tips for Families
Over-plan everything: Bring familiar snacks, research destinations thoroughly
Use TSA Cares program—can even pre-visit airport before flight day
Avoid airline special assistance codes—they can make check-in harder, not easier
Check IBCCES (International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards) website for autism-certified hotels, airlines, restaurants
Same team mindset: Parents must support each other through challenges
Don't give up—reach out to organizations like Aviators for Autism for support
🕒 Chapter Timestamps
0:00 – 0:44 | Introduction: Setting the stage0:45 – 3:40 | Antonio's aviation roots and unconventional path to the industry3:41 – 4:51 | Childhood memories and Texas air shows4:52 – 6:35 | Balancing business aviation, advocacy, and family life6:36 – 9:12 | How Nicholas sparked the mission and the dual approach9:13 – 12:15 | Defining success: Empowering families and creating employment12:16 – 15:47 | Immersive airport experiences: Design and execution15:48 – 17:45 | Partnerships, connections, and expanding nationwide17:46 – 22:28 | Employment opportunities: From detailing to flight desks22:29 – 26:00 | Addressing drawbacks and building better processes26:01 – 31:20 | Professional inclusion and starting at the source—youth31:21 – 35:02 | Aircraft interior innovations and sensory-friendly design35:03 – 37:20 | EVTOL, autonomous flight, and future opportunities37:21 – 40:10 | Airport escort services and building pilot programs40:11 – 42:48 | Supporting special needs fathers—the WhatsApp community42:49 – 45:31 | How to get involved with Aviators for Autism45:32 – 47:28 | Message to youth on the spectrum: Opportunity is yours47:29 – 51:31 | Message to parents: Planning, TSA Cares, and staying same team51:32 – 53:40 | Lightning Round: Pistachios, F-16s, and Howard Hughes53:41 – end | Closing
Links
Aviators for Autism: aviatorsforautism.org | Email: antonio@aviatorsforautism.org
Flyte Sunglasses: https://www.flyte.aero/
AviNation USA: https://www.avinationusa.com/
Creative Relay Media: https://creativerelaymedia.com/
IBCCES (Autism Travel Resources): Search for autism-certified travel vendors: https://ibcces.org/